Which Statement Best Describes The Underlying Reason For Andrew Johnson’s Impeachment?

Which Statement Best Describes The Underlying Reason For Andrew Johnson’s Impeachment?

1. A) He was found guilty of embezzlement and corruption.
2. B) He violated the Tenure of Office Act by dismissing a member of his cabinet without Senate approval.
3. C) He was charged with treason for supporting the Confederacy during the Civil War.
4. D) He failed to enforce the Reconstruction Acts passed by Congress.

Answer: B) He violated the Tenure of Office Act by dismissing a member of his cabinet without Senate approval.

Explanation:

Andrew Johnson was the 17th President of the United States, serving from 1865 to 1869. His impeachment was the result of a long-standing conflict between him and Congress over the issue of Reconstruction following the Civil War.

In 1867, Congress passed the Tenure of Office Act, which required the Senate's approval for the President to remove certain officeholders. Johnson believed that the act was unconstitutional and ignored it, dismissing Edwin M. Stanton, the Secretary of War, without Senate approval. The House of Representatives responded by voting to impeach Johnson, charging him with violating the Tenure of Office Act.

The Senate held a trial, and in May 1868, Johnson narrowly avoided removal from office by one vote. However, the incident damaged his presidency and weakened the power of the presidency vis-a-vis Congress.

Therefore, the best statement that describes the underlying reason for Andrew Johnson's impeachment is that he violated the Tenure of Office Act by dismissing a member of his cabinet without Senate approval.